Deadline: 10-Aug-2026
The Tourism Icons Investment Fund Round 2 provides AUD 1 million to AUD 5 million in capital co-funding for major tourism projects across Queensland. The program supports new and enhanced visitor attractions in areas such as ecotourism, adventure tourism, cultural tourism, agritourism, and coastal tourism, with applicants required to provide at least 50% co-contribution toward eligible project costs.
Tourism Icons Investment Fund Round 2: Capital Funding for Major Tourism Projects in Queensland
Program Overview
The Tourism Icons Investment Fund (TIIF) Round 2 is a Queensland Government initiative designed to support transformative tourism developments that strengthen the state’s visitor economy.
The fund provides capital investment for large-scale tourism projects that create unique visitor experiences, encourage regional tourism growth, increase visitor spending, and generate long-term economic and community benefits.
Funding is available for projects that enhance Queensland’s position as a leading tourism destination while promoting sustainable and innovative tourism experiences.
Focus Areas
The program supports projects in the following tourism sectors:
- Ecotourism
- Adventure tourism
- Dark sky tourism
- Agritourism
- Coastal tourism
- Marine tourism
- Cultural tourism
- Heritage tourism
- Paleo tourism
- Sustainable tourism
- Nature-based tourism
- Regional tourism development
- Visitor attractions
- Tourism infrastructure
Funding Details
Successful applicants may receive:
- Minimum grant: AUD 1 million
- Maximum grant: AUD 5 million (GST exclusive)
Co-Funding Requirement
Funding is provided on a 1:1 matched funding basis.
Applicants must contribute at least 50% of the total eligible project costs through their own investment or other eligible funding sources.
Program Objectives
The fund aims to:
- Develop world-class tourism attractions.
- Increase visitor numbers across Queensland.
- Enhance regional tourism experiences.
- Support sustainable tourism development.
- Create new tourism infrastructure.
- Encourage private sector investment.
- Generate employment opportunities.
- Deliver long-term economic and social benefits.
- Strengthen Queensland’s tourism competitiveness.
Eligible Projects
Projects may include:
New Tourism Attractions
- Large-scale visitor attractions
- Destination experiences
- Signature tourism developments
Nature-Based Tourism
- Ecotourism experiences
- National park tourism initiatives
- Wildlife attractions
- Conservation-based tourism
Adventure Tourism
- Outdoor adventure experiences
- Active tourism facilities
- Nature adventure attractions
Agritourism
Projects connecting visitors with:
- Farms
- Food production
- Agricultural experiences
- Rural tourism
- Local produce
Coastal and Marine Tourism
Examples include:
- Marine attractions
- Island tourism
- Coastal visitor experiences
- Waterfront tourism developments
Cultural and Heritage Tourism
Projects showcasing:
- Local heritage
- Indigenous culture
- Historical attractions
- Cultural experiences
Paleo Tourism
Projects highlighting:
- Fossil discoveries
- Paleontological attractions
- Geological heritage experiences
Who is Eligible?
Applications are open to:
- New tourism operators
- Existing tourism operators
- Tourism businesses operating in Queensland
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Operate an active tourism business in Queensland.
- Hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST) at the time of application.
- Demonstrate the ability to contribute at least 50% of eligible project costs.
- Propose an eligible tourism development located in Queensland.
Why This Fund Matters
Tourism is one of Queensland’s most significant economic sectors. This fund helps accelerate major tourism developments that create memorable visitor experiences while supporting local businesses, regional communities, and employment.
By encouraging matched private investment, the program enables ambitious tourism projects that may otherwise struggle to secure sufficient capital.
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your business:
- Operates in Queensland
- Has an ABN
- Is GST registered
- Can provide the required co-contribution
Step 2: Develop Your Tourism Project
Prepare a project that delivers a significant new or enhanced visitor experience aligned with one or more program focus areas.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documentation
Gather information including:
- Project proposal
- Budget
- Co-funding evidence
- Business information
- Project timeline
- Economic and community impact details
Step 4: Demonstrate Co-Contribution
Provide evidence that at least 50% of the eligible project costs will be funded by your organization or approved partners.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Complete and submit the application with all required supporting documents before the closing date.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of success:
- Demonstrate strong visitor demand.
- Highlight economic benefits for Queensland.
- Show how the project creates a unique tourism experience.
- Include a realistic project budget and timeline.
- Present a clear sustainability strategy.
- Explain how the project benefits regional communities.
- Provide evidence of financial capacity to meet the matching contribution.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid:
- Incomplete applications.
- Insufficient matching funds.
- Weak business or financial planning.
- Projects with limited tourism impact.
- Unrealistic timelines or budgets.
- Failing to demonstrate visitor appeal.
- Missing supporting documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the Tourism Icons Investment Fund?
New and established tourism operators actively operating in Queensland that meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
How much funding is available?
Eligible projects can receive between AUD 1 million and AUD 5 million (GST exclusive).
Is matching funding required?
Yes. Applicants must provide at least 50% of the total eligible project costs, as funding is offered on a 1:1 co-contribution basis.
What tourism sectors are supported?
The program supports ecotourism, adventure tourism, dark sky tourism, agritourism, coastal and marine tourism, cultural and heritage tourism, paleo tourism, and other strategic tourism developments.
Can new tourism businesses apply?
Yes. Both new and established tourism operators may apply if they meet the eligibility requirements.
What types of projects are eligible?
Eligible projects include major visitor attractions, ecotourism developments, island tourism redevelopment, sustainable tourism initiatives, active tourism experiences, and agritourism projects.
What are the basic business requirements?
Applicants must operate in Queensland, hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), and be registered for GST at the time of application.
Conclusion
The Tourism Icons Investment Fund Round 2 offers a significant opportunity for Queensland tourism operators to develop landmark visitor experiences through grants of AUD 1 million to AUD 5 million. By supporting strategic, sustainable, and innovative tourism projects across sectors such as ecotourism, adventure tourism, agritourism, and cultural tourism, the fund aims to strengthen Queensland’s visitor economy, stimulate regional growth, and create lasting economic and community benefits.
For more information, visit Queensland Government.